Development of a Generic Operator Aiding and Training System

Abstract

A blend of recent technological innovations has provided the capability for a new generation of operator aiding and training systems. This paper discusses the development of one such system - a multi-purpose, computer-based system that permits real-time user interaction with custom designed training and/or decision aids. The system is built around a laser video-disc player which provides the capability for random access of video imagery which can be combined with computer-generated graphics on a color monitor. The audio signal is stored on an audio disk system that also permits random access to real speech segments. System software is designed with the flexibility to permit the production and integration of video, audio, graphics and text information which can be made available to the user through different accessing schemes, for example, paging, selection from a menu, embedded in operating/maintenance procedures, or through highly interactive decision-making routines. The system under development is being used to explore and demonstrate a wide range of applications in the utility, process control and commercial industries. Video-disc techniques of surrogate travel, interactive instruction, and spatial data management are under investigation as potential aids to the operator/maintainer of large complex systems. This paper discusses the potential system applications and also evaluates the advantages and limitations of the component technologies for the human-machine interface.